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Page 6 of 7 Oyola et al. Mini-invasive Surg 2023;7:26 https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/2574-1225.2023.26

Although various techniques exist for inguinal hernia repair, the practices of surgeons captured in the
ACHQC mostly conform to recently published guidelines. However, there are still guidelines that lack
surgeon compliance. Although the present study suggests that the hernia community is successful in
adhering to data-driven practices, there is still room for improvement, self-assessment, and self-criticism.
The ongoing research conducted by the HerniaSurge Group represents a necessary investigation into the
best practices within the continually evolving field of hernia surgery. The ACHQC is a valuable resource for
data and accountability to both establish sound guidelines and monitor adherence. While further research is
needed to strengthen the existing guidelines, a standardized approach will facilitate this effort while aiming
to reduce negative patient outcomes.

DECLARATIONS
Authors’ contributions
Conceived the presented idea, sought out data acquisition, and supervised the findings of this work: Hope
W
Performed the computation, composed the Tables and Figures, wrote the manuscript: Oyola AM
Contributed to discussion and editing: Beeson S
Provided critical feedback and assistance with editing: Hope W, Edgerton C

Availability of data and materials
Data from 18,641 eligible subjects with inguinal and femoral hernias were evaluated. Inclusion criteria
consisted of elective and emergent cases with 30-day follow-up. The relevant data were selected based on
questions and recommendations posed in the 2018 HerniaSurge Group publication: International
Guidelines for Groin Hernia Management.

Financial support and sponsorship
Not applicable.

Conflict of interest
All authors declared that there are no conflicts of interest.

Ethical approval and consent to participate
Data obtained from the ACHQC between the years 2013-2021. The Abdominal Core Health Quality
Collaborative (ACHQC) was established as a non-profit comprised of 440 institutional and individual
surgeon members who voluntarily report patient data that are then aggregated, de-identified, and shared
within a national database.

Consent for publication
Not applicable.

Copyright
© The Author(s) 2023.

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